Gazette for adoption name change
Adoption is a beautiful step where a child becomes a permanent member of a new family. In India, once adoption is finalized, the child may take a new name or surname to reflect their identity with the adoptive parents. To make this new name legally valid, parents must publish the change in the Gazette of India.
This process, known as Gazette notification for adoption name change, provides government-approved proof that the child’s new name is legally recognized.
In this blog, we will explain the complete process of adoption name change through Gazette notification, required documents, step-by-step procedure, FAQs, and why Gazette publication is so important.
What is Gazette Notification for Adoption Name Change?
The Gazette of India is the official publication of the Government of India, managed by the Department of Publication. It records changes such as:
- Name change
- Surname change
- Date of birth correction
- Religion change
- Adoption-related name change
When adoptive parents give a new name to their adopted child, Gazette publication ensures that the new name is recognized in all legal and official records.
Why is Gazette Publication Important in Adoption Cases?
Adoption name change is not just about identity—it is about ensuring that the child’s future is secure with legal recognition.
Key benefits:
- Makes the child’s new name legally valid.
- Ensures smooth updation of records in Aadhaar, passport, school, and bank accounts.
- Acts as permanent government proof of the adoption name change.
- Prevents disputes in inheritance, property, or legal matters.
- Helps in school admissions, government schemes, and travel documents.
Example: If a child named “Rohan Kumar” is adopted by a family and renamed “Rohan Sharma,” the Gazette notification provides official recognition of the new surname.
Step-by-Step Process for Gazette Notification of Adoption Name Change
Step 1: Prepare Adoption Affidavit
- Prepare an affidavit on non-judicial stamp paper.
- Mention the child’s old name, new name, date of birth, and adoption details.
- State clearly that the child has been adopted and the name is being changed legally.
- Sign the affidavit and get it notarized.
Step 2: Publish Newspaper Advertisement
- Publish a notice in one English newspaper and one regional language newspaper.
- The notice must include the old name, new name, date of birth, and parents’ details.
- Keep copies of the newspapers for submission.
Step 3: Collect Required Documents
- Adoption deed or court order
- Notarized affidavit of name change
- Newspaper publication copies
- Aadhaar card (if available for the child)
- Birth certificate of the child
- ID and address proof of adoptive parents
- Two passport-size photographs of the child
- Application form for Gazette notification
Step 4: Submit Application to Gazette Office
- Submit the documents to the Department of Publication in Delhi or through authorized agents.
- Pay the applicable fee for Gazette notification.
Step 5: Gazette Publication
- After verification, the adoption name change will be published in the Official Gazette of India.
- You can then use the Gazette copy as proof for updating all records.
Documents Required for Gazette Publication of Adoption Name Change
- Adoption deed or legal court order
- Affidavit of adoption name change
- Copies of two newspaper publications
- Child’s birth certificate
- Aadhaar card (if issued)
- ID proof of adoptive parents
- Address proof of adoptive parents
- Passport-size photographs of the child
- Signed application form
How Long Does the Process Take?
The Gazette process usually takes 30 to 60 days, depending on verification and publication schedules.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not attaching the adoption deed or court order
- Wrong affidavit format
- Missing newspaper publications
- Submitting incomplete documents
FAQs on Gazette for Adoption Name Change
Yes, Gazette notification is strongly recommended as it provides legal recognition of the child’s new name.
Yes, Gazette copy is valid proof for updating all government IDs.
You must provide a registered adoption deed or notarized adoption affidavit.
Usually 1–2 months.
The adoptive parents must apply on behalf of the adopted child.
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Summary – Gazette for Adoption Name Change
Adoption is a life-changing decision, and changing the child’s name is often part of the process. Publishing the new name in the Gazette of India ensures it becomes legally valid and permanent. The procedure includes affidavit preparation, newspaper publication, document submission, and final Gazette notification.
👉 If you are an adoptive parent, completing the Gazette process is the safest way to secure your child’s new identity.
